Best HVAC Brands
Customer Ratings of Top BRANDS in the 2025 America's Most Trusted Study
Choosing the right heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is important in creating a comfortable home. Beyond the technical specifications, brand trust plays a crucial role in your decision-making process. When you choose a well-established HVAC brand, you're more likely to feel confident about your investment. These companies have a reputation for delivering reliable and durable systems, and they often lead the way in innovation, introducing new technologies that enhance performance and efficiency. Trustworthy brands also make a point to comply with industry standards, ensuring their products meet high-quality benchmarks. And let’s not forget the importance of customer support; a brand that stands behind its products with good warranties and helpful service can make all the difference.
In this report, we’ll dive into what makes certain HVAC brands stand out regarding trust and reliability. We’ll explore the factors that contribute to brand trust and highlight the brands that consumers have come to rely on for their home comfort needs. Whether upgrading an old system or installing one for the first time, understanding brand trust can help you make an informed choice that leads to lasting satisfaction in your home.
The 2025 America’s Most Trusted Study
Launched over a decade ago, America's Most Trusted® has become a valuable resource for brands aiming to understand how trust influences consumer shopping decisions. It’s essential for brands to grasp how this trust affects their overall market performance. New results are released each January, offering a clear ranking of brand trust that consumers can rely on.
Brand trust is all about how confident customers feel in a brand's ability to deliver on its promises. Regarding HVAC brands, fostering and maintaining this trust is key to keeping customers returning. If consumers trust a particular HVAC brand, they’re more likely to purchase and recommend it to friends and family. This trust lays the foundation for loyalty, encouraging repeat business and generating positive word-of-mouth, which is invaluable in the competitive HVAC market.
Lifestory Research gathers insights from thousands of people each year to understand their perceptions and experiences with various brands. To gauge whether a product meets customer expectations compared to its competitors, we use the Net Trust Quotient Score (NTQS). This score provides meaningful insights into consumer trust based on rigorous social and opinion research practices that adhere to high-quality standards.
So, which HVAC brands do people trust the most? We’ve surveyed consumers in the America’s Most Trusted Study to answer this. We aim to identify which brands consumers hold in high regard by asking them to rate their experiences.
At Lifestory Research, we focus on honest feedback from everyday consumers like you. Our ratings, reviews, and awards come from detailed surveys that capture honest opinions about HVAC systems. Our commitment to gathering insights directly from individuals without relying on third-party reviews, committees, or industry experts sets us apart. This ensures that our findings are based solely on the views of people with firsthand experience with the brands, providing trustworthy information as you navigate your HVAC choices.
2025 America’s Most Trusted HVAC System
The Lifestory Research 2025 America’s Most Trusted® HVAC System Study identified Trane as the most trusted brand for consumers considering the purchase of an HVAC system. With a Net Trust Quotient Score of 113.4, Trane secured the highest trust rating among the leading HVAC brands. Notably, this marks the 11th consecutive year consumers have rated Trane as their most trusted HVAC brand in the annual study.
The Lifestory Research 2025 America’s Most Trusted® HVAC System ranking is based on 8,856 opinions of people surveyed in the United States over the last 12 months. To be considered in our rankings, an HVAC brand must have a certain level of consumer recognition. This means that people should know about the brand and have formed opinions about it. If an HVAC brand lacks this recognition or enough feedback, it is excluded from the study rankings.
According to independent consumer ratings research, what are the most trustworthy brands in America? What are the top HVAC brands people trust the most?
The table below shows the HVAC rankings among the top HVAC brands in the 2025 America’s Most Trusted® study.
TOP 12 Ranked HVAC Brands – 2025 Customer Ratings
| 1 | Trane | 113.4 | ★★★★★ |
| 2 | Carrier | 112.5 | ★★★★★ |
| 3 | Lennox | 107.2 | ☆☆☆ |
| 4 | Rheem | 104.3 | ☆☆ |
| 5 | Whirlpool | 104.0 | ☆☆ |
| 6 | Goodman | 103.2 | ☆☆ |
| 7 | Bryant | 102.9 | ☆☆ |
| 8 | American Standard | 102.1 | ☆☆ |
| 9 | York | 100.9 | ☆☆ |
| 10 | Mitsubishi | 98.0 | ☆☆ |
| 11 | Ruud | 97.7 | ☆☆ |
| 12 | Amana | 96.9 | ☆☆ |
No promotional use or advertising can be made of America's Most Trusted® survey results without the express prior written consent of Lifestory Research. America's Most Trusted® is a registered trademark of Lifestory with all rights reserved. Study results are based on survey responses and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Your experiences may vary.
Looking for quality customer ratings of products to make informed and trusted purchasing decisions? Discover genuine customer reviews that focus on various products' quality, reliability, and trustworthiness. Our independent research offers detailed product ratings, insights into quality, performance, durability, and overall value for money based on customer trust ratings. Explore the latest customer reviews to ensure you're making a purchase based on trustworthy ratings and superior quality, so you can buy with confidence! See the results of 75 different product studies here.
Brands Ranked in Study
The Lifestory Research America’s Most Trusted® research study actively surveys HVAC shoppers throughout the year in the United States. The study is focused on measuring consumers' opinions of the most recognized HVAC brands in the market. Here, we provide information on the brands in the 2025 America’s Most Trusted® study. The brands are presented in the order they ranked in the 2025 America’s Most Trusted® study.
Trane
Trane is a prominent global provider of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The company originated in 1885 as a family-owned plumbing business in La Crosse, Wisconsin, founded by James Trane and his son Reuben, a mechanical engineer. They developed a pioneering low-pressure steam heating system. The business was formally incorporated as The Trane Company in 1913, and in 1931, it patented its first air conditioning system. Headquartered in Davidson, North Carolina, Trane is known for its innovative, energy-efficient HVAC solutions, widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Carrier
Carrier Corporation, a subsidiary of Carrier Global Corporation, is a leading HVAC manufacturer headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Founded by Willis Carrier in 1915, the company is credited with inventing modern air conditioning. Carrier offers a comprehensive range of HVAC products and services for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Notable product lines include the Infinity and Performance series, recognized for their advanced energy-saving technologies.
Lennox
Lennox International Inc. specializes in climate control solutions, encompassing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Established in 1895 and headquartered in Richardson, Texas, Lennox is known for its high-efficiency products designed for both residential and commercial markets. Its product offerings include the Lennox Signature Collection, which features advanced technology for optimal energy efficiency and comfort.
Rheem
Rheem Manufacturing Company, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is a major American producer of water heating and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1925, Rheem provides a variety of heating and cooling solutions for residential and commercial applications. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation, with product lines such as the Rheem Classic and Prestige series.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool Corporation is primarily known for its home appliances but also manufactures HVAC systems. Founded in 1911 and based in Benton Harbor, Michigan, the company offers a range of heating and cooling solutions alongside its well-known appliance lines. Whirlpool's HVAC products include air conditioning units and heating systems designed for residential use.
Goodman
Goodman Manufacturing, part of the Daikin Group, is a leading manufacturer of HVAC systems. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Goodman was founded in 1975 and focuses on residential and commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The company is known for its affordability and efficiency, with product offerings that include the Goodman GSX series of air conditioners and the GMSS92 gas furnace.
Bryant
Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems operates under Carrier Global Corporation and has been in business since 1904. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Bryant provides a range of HVAC products for both residential and commercial applications. The brand is recognized for reliability and efficiency, with popular product lines such as the Evolution and Preferred series.
American Standard
American Standard is a brand under Trane Technologies, which is headquartered in Swords, Dublin, Ireland. With roots dating back to the 19th century, American Standard manufactures HVAC systems and related products known for their reliability and energy efficiency. Its product offerings include air conditioners and furnaces designed for residential comfort.
York
York is a brand under Johnson Controls, a global HVAC equipment supplier headquartered in Cork, Ireland. York's history dates back to 1874, and it is known for its innovative and efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning solutions. The brand offers various HVAC products, including the Affinity series, which focuses on energy efficiency.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Electric, based in Tokyo, Japan, is a global manufacturer of electronic and electrical equipment, including HVAC systems. Established in 1921, Mitsubishi Electric is recognized for its advanced, energy-efficient HVAC technologies. Its product offerings include the City Multi and Mr. Slim systems, which are popular for their versatility in residential and commercial applications.
Ruud
Ruud, a brand under Rheem Manufacturing Company, specializes in HVAC and water heating products. Rheem, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, has a history that dates back to the 1880s. Ruud provides a variety of heating and cooling solutions suitable for residential and commercial use, including the Ruud Ultra series of high-efficiency units.
Amana
Amana is a brand under Goodman Manufacturing, known for its residential heating and cooling products. Goodman, based in Houston, Texas, has a history that dates back to the 1930s. Amana offers a range of HVAC solutions for homeowners, including the Amana ASXC series of air conditioners, designed for efficiency and comfort.
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Foundational Principles
At Lifestory Research, we pride ourselves on being an independent research company committed to delivering unbiased and accurate insights into consumer behavior. Unlike many studies that lean on expert opinions or committees, our approach is rooted firmly in the voices of consumers themselves. This commitment ensures that our findings seek to reflect public sentiment.
By prioritizing consumer opinions, we effectively eliminate the biases that can come from personal agendas or industry affiliations. Our research methodology captures a wide array of perspectives, allowing our results to be representative of the broader population.
Core Principles of Quality Research
We uphold several foundational principles that define top-tier consumer research:
Reliability: We ensure our research consistently produces accurate results.
Validity: Our methods guarantee we measure what we intend to measure.
Objectivity: We take great care to avoid bias throughout the research process.
Generalizability: Our findings can be applied to the larger population.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Lifestory Research adheres to these principles through a series of rigorous practices:
Rigorous Sampling Methods: We carefully select representative samples to generalize our findings to the broader population.
Standardized Survey Instruments: These ensure consistency and reliability in data collection.
Quality Control Measures: Our team meticulously reviews and analyzes data to identify and rectify inconsistencies.
Ethical Standards: We prioritize the well-being of our participants and uphold their privacy throughout the research process.
When you explore our findings, you can trust that they are grounded in the authentic opinions of real people. This dedication to integrity makes our research a valuable resource for businesses and consumers.
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What Is the America’s Most Trusted® Study?
The America’s Most Trusted® study focuses on evaluating brands that offer products or services to consumers in their homes, particularly in the residential new home industry. Instead of attempting to survey every brand, the study specifically targets the largest and most impactful brands in this sector.
How Does the Survey Work?
Conducted throughout the year, the America’s Most Trusted® survey aims to gather consumer opinions while minimizing biases that might arise from external events or trends. This year-long approach helps capture a more accurate snapshot of consumer sentiments.
Participants are surveyed based on specific criteria, such as whether they are actively considering a purchase in a relevant category—like buying a home, faucet, HVAC. Only those who express familiarity with a brand are invited to share their opinions on its trustworthiness, ensuring that the study reflects genuine consumer insights.
The Importance of Brand Awareness
An essential component of the study is brand awareness. Participants are first asked to identify brands they recognize. Only those who are familiar with a brand proceed to answer questions about it. This criterion ensures that only brands with sufficient public recognition are included in the final trust rankings.
Sampling Methodology
The study employs a non-probability sampling design, relying on online panels to recruit participants. Online panels are organizations that have an established relationship with consumers who agree to complete opinion surveys. Lifestory randomly ask consumers questions that identify consumers shopping for a specific product. Qualified consumers complete an online survey in which they are asked a set of questions about specific product brands.
The number of people completing a survey is referred to as the sample size. Each of the America’s Most Trusted studies seek to obtain a sample size that is large enough to be representative. The sample size is also designed to collect a large number of consumer opinions to minimize error and to assure the study results reflect the majority of consumers sentiment about a brand.
Calculating Trust Scores
At the heart of the America’s Most Trusted® study is the Net Trust Quotient Score. Participants evaluate brands based on their trustworthiness through a series of targeted questions. The responses are then categorized into three groups:
Advocates: Consumers who express strong trust in the brand.
Neutrals: Those who trust the brand but do not consider it superior to others.
Antagonists: Consumers with little to no trust in the brand.
These evaluations are quantified using a statistical method called a z-score, which standardizes the responses, allowing for easy comparison across brands. The results are ultimately transformed into T scores, which are more intuitive for understanding how each brand ranks relative to the mean score of all brands surveyed.
Additional information about the study can be found on the survey methodology page of this website.
Additional insights and questions about the America’s Most Trusted® study can be found in the frequently asked questions section of this website.